Automobile

New 2017 Volkswagen Polo GTI set for 2.0-litre power

An all-new Volkswagen Polo is scheduled to appear later this year، and naturally a fresh GTI badged hot hatch version will follow in its tracks، UK-based Auto Express magazine reported.

A 197bhp 2.0 TSI from the previous Golf GTI will feature in its next hot supermini، meaning it will be more powerful and noticeably faster than the one it will replace، VW confirmed.

The current Polo GTI boasts 189bhp، but the new model will turn up the wick to be on par with the next-generation Ford Fiesta ST، which makes use of a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder. The increase in power is expected to drop the 0-62mph time from 6.7 seconds to less than six seconds.

The new MQB A0-based Polo GTI is likely to use the same XDS electronic diff lock as the current car، while adaptive dampers with comfort and sport settings could also appear.

The confirmation of the 197bhp engine in the MQB A0 platform is also the strongest hint yet that it’ll also appear in a hot SEAT Ibiza Cupra.

There will be lowered sports suspension، racy alloys and the usual GTI trimmings، but overall the next Polo won’t be a gamechanger in terms of design.

The Polo GTI should arrive shortly after the rest of the range at the end of the year، starting at just above £20،000.